Kenneth Okonkwo Explains Why No South East Politician Emerged As Atiku’s ADC Running Mate

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Thursday, Okonkwo dismissed claims that he opposed the emergence of Rotimi Amaechi as Atiku’s running mate. He said he fully supports the party’s decision and does not know where reports suggesting otherwise originated.

Okonkwo explained that no South East politician was eligible for the position because the Electoral Act 2026 requires anyone seeking nomination to have been a registered member of a political party at least 21 days before the primary election. According to him, the South East leaders he would have preferred did not meet that requirement.

He added that those who had indicated interest in the presidential ticket included Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, Hayatudeen Ibrahim and Peter Obi before Obi exited the coalition. Okonkwo said Obi’s departure left the South East without a clear contender for the position.

He also commended Atiku for bringing party stakeholders together for dialogue shortly after returning from an overseas trip, describing the move as a demonstration of leadership.